I recently purchased a 2006 250 XCiting and I am really enjoying it. I cannot, however, figure out how to put the bike on its center stand. Anyone have any tips?
Same technique as for any larger bike.
Start with it on its side stand. Facing the bike, put a little weight on the center stand lever so the nearside foot touches the ground firmly. With one hand on the bars and the other on the grab rail, rock the bike upright until both feet of the center stand are planted. If you need to switch your grip around at this point, you can. As long as you keep downward pressure on the center stand lever with your foot, the bike can't fall down. Now pull gently upwards on the grab rail and put your weight on the lever.
Once you get that technique down it's pretty much effortless. At least, it is for me with my 500 and I've seen even fairly small ladies manage it with big machines exactly the same way.